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Tokyo, Japan
Start in Tokyo and head to the lesser-visited Yanaka district for its old Edo-era streets dusted in winter frost. Warm up with a steaming bowl of ramen at a local Shinjuku alley shop. Don't miss the illuminations along Omotesando in the winter evenings.
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Kawagoe, Japan
Just 30 minutes from Tokyo, Kawagoe is known as 'Little Edo' and its historic kurazukuri warehouse district feels magical in the cold winter air. Try sweet potato snacks and amazake (warm fermented rice drink) from street vendors. Crowds are far thinner here than in central Tokyo.
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Nasu, Japan
A quiet highland resort town north of Tokyo beloved by Japanese for winter onsen retreats. Nasu Onsen is famous for its milky sulfuric hot springs perfect for soaking on freezing days. The snow-capped Nasu-dake volcano looming overhead makes for a dramatic winter backdrop.
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Kyoto, Japan
Winter is arguably Kyoto's most atmospheric season — Fushimi Inari and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) dusted in snow are unforgettable sights. Explore the quieter Kurama area for its onsen village feel just 30 minutes from the city center. Warm up with tofu kaiseki cuisine, a Kyoto winter specialty.
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Kinosaki, Japan
Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan's most charming hot spring towns, with willow-lined canals and seven public bathhouses to hop between in yukata and geta sandals. Winter is peak season here for dining on the famous seasonal Matsuba crab (snow crab). The snowy lantern-lit streets at night are extraordinarily beautiful.
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Osaka, Japan
Osaka in winter is all about comfort eating — indulge in takoyaki, kushikatsu, and steaming bowls of udon in the Dotonbori area. The Umeda Sky Building offers stunning winter night views over the glittering city. Visit the less-touristy Shinsekai neighbourhood for a gritty, retro Osaka experience.
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Koyasan, Japan
This sacred Buddhist mountain town is one of Japan's most spiritual places and takes on an ethereal quality blanketed in winter snow. Stay overnight in a shukubo (temple lodging) and join monks for morning prayer. The Okunoin cemetery lit by lanterns under snow is one of the most hauntingly beautiful sights in all of Japan.